Clinical trials and research

What is a clinical research study?

A clinical research study, sometimes referred to as a clinical trial, is a carefully designed and highly regulated study of the safety and effectiveness of new, innovative medicines, procedures or equipment. The purpose of the study is to determine if the new course of treatment will be effective in preventing, diagnosing or treating people with specific illnesses or conditions.

All participants in a clinical research study must first volunteer to be in the study. Volunteers must sign an informed consent which details the nature of the study. The form presents any risks involved and lets volunteers know they may choose to leave the study at any time.

All clinical research studies are approved and monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB). The main role of the IRB is to ensure that the study is conducted in a safe manner. Patient safety is of the utmost concern in any clinical study.

Who can participate in a clinical research study?

Everyone has the right to apply to participate in a clinical research study. However, because each study is designed to answer a specific research question, not everyone who applies may be granted admission into the study. Guidelines that determine who may enroll in a particular study are meant to ensure reliable results and to protect study participants.

Why doesn't it cost anything to participate in a clinical research study?

Research is funded by sponsors (i.e., pharmaceutical companies, government, etc.) who pay for the costs of research related medical procedures and physician office visits. There is no cost to the patient or insurance companies for these research related procedures and doctor visits.

More information

To inquire about enrolling in a Community Heart and Vascular clinical research study, please email cvresearch@eCommunity.com or call 317-621-7724.